Event manager Jonathan Cweorth, workshop co-ordinator Xanthe Naylor and team member Joel Lawry transformed the space overnight last week to give the public the chance to enjoy the lanterns up close before the carnival weekend of July 8 and 9.
Along with a gigantic snail and its family outside the former H&J Smith entrance, a giant shell and suspended stars will be on show until July 13.
As a key sponsor of the Dunedin Midwinter Carnival, the Meridian Mall is also hosting the ongoing weekend public lantern-making workshops, which continue on June 18-19, June 25-26, and July 2-3.
Each lantern-maker will be invited to take part in the new-look lantern processions, set to wind around the grounds of First Church within the carnival village several times each evening during the carnival weekend.
Workshop co-ordinator Xanthe Naylor said she was looking forward to the new format of multiple smaller processions.
"It’s exciting because all those lanterns created at the workshops will be the stars of the processions, giving everyone their time to shine," she said.
Dunedin Midwinter Carnival marketing manager Jess Covell said the new-look "Islands of Light" carnival, incorporating a carnival village in the grounds of First Church, multiple lantern installations around the site, live music on two stages, projections, aerials, dance and cultural performances, would give the public a chance to get up close to the action as never before.
Open from 6pm-10pm on July 8, and 6pm-11pm on July 9, to give people the chance to enjoy it after the All Blacks v Ireland rugby game, the carnival will incorporate multiple lantern parades for families as well.
"These changes will give people a chance to really relax and enjoy every aspect of the event, take a really close look at the lanterns, and enjoy our local talent," Ms Covell said.
Tickets will cost $5, with children under three years free.
A pay-it forward scheme set up to support families to attend was proving very successful, she said.
"It’s shaping up to be a fantastic event."
